Convertible Top Linkage for Multi-Position Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing convertible top systems for vehicles lack efficient mechanisms to retract the soft top from a closed position to multiple retracted positions, compromising wind drag, vehicle height, and storage efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The use of a plurality of pivoting armatures connected by transverse tensioning bows allows the convertible top to be retracted from a closed position to a first retracted position and further to a second retracted position, utilizing a link arrangement with pivotal mounts and joint arrangements to control the movement, ensuring compact folding and exposure of the passenger compartment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional convertible top system is used, then the soft top can be retracted from closed to open position, but the mechanism is complex and storage efficiency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The convertible top assembly is divided into multiple segments including a soft top portion, a first linkage assembly, and a second linkage assembly. Each segment can move independently through defined arcs, allowing the top to transition through multiple retracted positions (first retracted position and second retracted position) rather than a single complex motion path.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage assemblies employ dynamic motion paths where the soft top portion moves through a first arc during initial retraction and then through a second arc during further retraction. This dynamic, multi-stage motion allows efficient retraction while maintaining manageable linkage geometry at each stage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the convertible top is retracted to open position, then passenger compartment exposure is improved, but wind drag and vehicle height increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides intermediate retraction states (first retracted position and second retracted position) between the fully closed and fully open positions. Users can stop at these partial retraction positions depending on conditions, allowing optimization between compartment exposure and aerodynamic efficiency rather than forcing a complete open/closed binary state.
3Productivity
If multiple retracted positions are implemented, then storage efficiency and aerodynamics are improved, but the linkage mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second linkage assemblies are merged into an integrated system where the soft top portion connects both assemblies. The assemblies work together through shared mounting points and coordinated motion, achieving multiple retracted positions through a unified mechanism rather than separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage assemblies utilize three-dimensional motion arcs rather than simple planar movement. The soft top portion traverses a first arc and then a second arc in space, utilizing vertical and lateral dimensions to achieve compact storage positions that reduce vehicle height and improve aerodynamics without requiring excessively long linkage members.
Data Source
AI summary
A convertible top for a vehicle includes a convertible top assembly having a pivotally interconnected link arrangement between a forward assembly and an aft assembly. The forward assembly is configured to pivotally move relative to the vehicle framework and the aft assembly from a closed position to a first retracted position. The aft assembly is configured to pivotally move relative to the vehicle framework and the forward assembly from the first retracted position to a lowered storage position. Methods for opening the convertible top assembly are also provided.